Protein Brownie

Brownies are an all-time favorite dessert with an interesting backstory. Did you know they were first whipped up at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago for the 1893 World’s Fair? The goal was to create a dessert that was easy to eat while walking—and voilà, brownies were born. Over time, this fudgy treat has been reinvented in countless ways, like today’s healthier, protein-packed version. Want a dessert that’s indulgent and wholesome? Let’s dive into this rich, fudgy protein brownie recipe—perfect as a post-workout snack or guilt-free dessert.

Quick Recipe Snapshot

Here’s why you’ll love these protein brownies. They’re packed with flavor and nutrition, super easy to make, and ready in less than 30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Makes: 16 brownies
• Skill Level: Easy—great for beginners!

Bonus Tip: Got leftovers? Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for meal prep!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• Almond Flour (1 1/4 cups): Gives a nutty flavor and keeps them gluten-free. No almond flour? Try oat or all-purpose flour instead.
• Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup): For that intense chocolate flavor. Regular cocoa will work too!
• Chocolate Protein Powder (1/3 cup): Use whey, casein, or plant-based powder to boost the protein.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out the chocolatey goodness.
• Coconut Oil, melted (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp): Adds moisture. Swap it with butter or avocado oil if needed.
• Coconut Sugar (1 1/4 cups): For sweetness. Want lower calories? Use monk fruit sweetener.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tbsp): Because everything tastes better with vanilla.
• Eggs (3 large, room temperature): Helps with structure. Prefer egg-free? Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• Mini Chocolate Chips (optional): Sprinkle on top for extra indulgence!

Directions: How to Make These Brownies

Let’s get baking! Here’s a simple, step-by-step process:

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8″x8″ pan with parchment paper, and leave a little overhang so you can lift the brownies out easily.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl. Whisk together almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, and salt.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir melted coconut oil with sugar and vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Avoid overmixing—it makes the brownies less fudgy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined and don’t overdo it.

Step 5: Pour Into Pan

Spread your batter evenly into the prepared pan. Want an extra treat? Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top!

Step 6: Bake

Bake for about 18 minutes. The edges should look set, and the center should be just slightly soft.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 2 hours. This step is key to getting that fudgy texture.

Make It Your Way

What’s great about this recipe? It’s super customizable!

• Need it vegan? Swap eggs for flax eggs or applesauce.
• Want it lower in sugar? Try a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit.
• No almond flour? Oat or gluten-free all-purpose flour works too.
• Nut-free? Use sunflower seed flour and avocado oil.
• Looking for seasonal flair? Add cinnamon and nutmeg for fall or swirl raspberry puree on top in the summer.

Serve, Store, and Enjoy

Serving Ideas:

• Top with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt for a protein-packed pairing.
• Serve chilled with fresh berries for a refreshing twist.

Storage Tips:

• Room temp? Keep them in an airtight container for 2 days.
• Fridge? Store for up to 5 days—still moist and fudgy!
• Freezer? Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Suggestions:

• Microwave a slice for 15 seconds to bring back the gooeyness.
• For larger batches, warm them in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes.

If you’ve been searching for a snack that satisfies your chocolate cravings and fuels your body, these protein brownies are a must-try. Whether it’s a post-gym boost or a dessert you don’t feel bad about, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ready to bake your way to a healthier treat? Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!

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